School of Molecular Sciences Fact Sheet

School of Molecular Sciences

Fact sheet Natural Sciences

Leading global impact and innovative solutions

Solutions at the molecular level Our mission is to extend the limits of fundamental molecular and materials science, take what we learn to address important societal problems and to pass that understanding and passion for discovery on to the next generation of scientists. Our education programs are designed and measured on the basis of equity and inclusion, as well as how our students succeed.

The School of Molecular Sciences exemplifies ASU’s spirit of innovation. The school has been responsible for obtaining the first pictures of atomic orbitals, synthesizing the first metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), determining the first X-ray free electron laser crystal structure of a protein and launching the first fully online bachelor’s degree in biochemistry.

Pioneering researcher

Mike O’Keefe is a towering figure in the field of atomic and electronic structure of crystalline solids. Together with other researchers at ASU, he generated the first pictures of atomic orbitals and invented the field of metal-organic framework structures. Between 2000 and 2010 he was the 3rd most cited chemist in the world.

Innovation in chemistry and biochemistry The School of Molecular Sciences is at the forefront of scientific research that impacts well beyond the traditional boundaries of chemistry and biochemistry. The school is pioneering new ways to examine and research to solve the world’s most pressing scientific problems.

1,068 854 undergraduates (online)

Experimentally imaged the first pictures of atomic orbitals Revolutionizing biology by generating the first crystal structure of a protein using X-ray nanocrystallography

Designed and synthesized the first metal-organic framework structures

Leading discoveries, including early studies that resulted in the first isolation of extraterrestrial amino acids

Developing the first artificial photosynthetic system capable of using light energy to synthesize ATP

Expanding access to education by offering the nation’s only online chemistry and biochemistry undergraduate degrees

192 10,096 7,369

undergraduates Graduate (on-campus) Students

course enrollments

unique students enrolled

Structural revolution

Petra Fromme’s group were part of an international team that generated the first crystal structure of a protein using femtosecond X-Ray nanocrystallography, a new tool so powerful that it promises to revolutionize the field of structural biology.

Access and opportunity

SMS has launched the nation’s only fully online chemistry and biochemistry degrees. The program is designed to meet the needs of a more diverse group of students and provide opportunity and access to learning for students who might otherwise be excluded from college degree programs.

Research and education programs that have impact The School of Molecular Sciences is redefining chemistry and biochemistry in contemporary research fields that produce solutions with real societal impact.

The school’s educational programs are designed to meet the needs of a wide diversity of students.

Contemporary research Chemistry of biology Energy and sustainability Environmental and biogeochemistry Fundamental molecular science Materials and nanoscience Medicine and health Societal impact Built cancer-fighting nanorobots Designed artificial leaf Developed Zika virus test Nanostructures to harvest the Sun’s energy Molecular computing inside cells

Support the molecular sciences The school is defining a new approach to research and academics in the molecular sciences and is creating a use-inspired environment in which to train a new generation of undergraduate and graduate students for success in an increasingly post-disciplinary scientific world. An investment in the School of Molecular Sciences is an investment in our students, faculty and staff who are committed to building Arizona State University’s reputation in leading-edge molecular science.

14 NSF and DOE CAREER Awards 10 Regents Professors 2 President’s Professors 2 Endowed Chairs

Inclusion and diversity 400 incoming undergraduates 24% first-generation students 30% racial and ethnic diversity 36% Pell grant eligible 58% female

sms.asu.edu

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School of Molecular Sciences Physical Sciences Center PSD-D102 Tempe, AZ 85287 November 2023